The Anchorage Animal Care and Control shelter in Alaska has embraced a wonderful initiative known as the Tails on Trails program, which launched in the spring of 2025. This delightful program has transformed the shelter into a hub of joy and connection for both dogs and volunteers.

The concept is beautifully simple: volunteers spend 48 hours with a dog, allowing them to bond and enjoy the great outdoors together, away from the confines of the kennels. This initiative has brought about a wave of positive change. The number of volunteers has surged, adoptions are happening more swiftly, and the dogs exhibit increased happiness as they receive more time outside.

Joel Jorgensen, the shelter’s community outreach manager, shared the uplifting impact of the program, stating, “They’re more in a state they would be at if they were living in a home, versus just being cooped up all day, and I think that’s the biggest relief on our end.” He added, “It’s good for the dogs, it’s good for the people adopting them, and it’s helping animals get out the door a lot faster.”

Since the program's inception, Jorgensen has welcomed over 400 new volunteers eager to make a furry friend. These volunteers embark on adventures, from nature walks to cozy sleepovers, and even the occasional trip through the drive-thru for a special treat.

The aim, as Jorgensen explained, is to shift away from the “doggy prison” mindset. The results have been remarkable, with dogs returning from their outings noticeably calmer and more relaxed.

Each dog is thoughtfully paired with volunteers based on their temperament and energy level, ensuring a harmonious experience for both parties. Jorgensen emphasized the importance of matching the right dog with the right volunteer, saying, “We can help guide people to pick the right dog. The last thing we want is someone planning to hike Flattop who ends up with a lazy dog that just wants to hang out on the couch.”

For those who already have dogs at home, the shelter team facilitates introductions, allowing for seamless adventures together. Jorgensen noted, “I think animals would be staying a lot longer in the shelter without this program. The more people we can get involved — whether it’s UAA students, families with kids, or visitors who miss their dogs back home — the better. It really does change lives.”

One enthusiastic volunteer, Sable McGovern, felt an immediate connection to the program. Despite the difficulty of returning the dogs to the shelter, she recognizes the positive difference she makes. “I feel like I could go home and sit on my phone, or I could go home and watch a TV show or something. Or I could make this dog's entire day and let her go outside and let her run around,” she shared. “Everyone deserves second chances.”

For those inspired to join this heartwarming initiative, the shelter welcomes you to stop by and complete an application along with a brief training session. Interested individuals can also reach out via email at [email protected] for more information.

This program is a shining example of how compassion and community involvement can bring happiness to animals and people alike, creating a brighter future for all.